Welcome to ACCESS GRANTED

In this latest episode of Access Granted, Renato Paiva, the CEO of Access Youth Academy, interviews Peter Ahn, Chief Customer Officer at Tiger Beetle, and discusses his journey from Korea to the U.S., his education at Stanford, and his career in tech sales. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in sales, advocating for building human connections over automation. Ahn shares his experiences at Google, Dropbox, and Slack, highlighting his decision to prioritize values over financial gains. He also discusses the impact of AI on sales and the necessity of hard work and genuine interactions. Ahn offers advice to young people, stressing the value of overcoming obstacles and the importance of dedication in achieving success.

Introduction of Peter Ahn

• Renato Paiva introduces Peter Ahn, the current Chief Customer Officer at Tiger Beetle, a tech sales coach, startup advisor, and Stanford graduate.
• Peter Ahn is noted for his unique perspective on leadership and sales, especially through the lens of his Korean background.
• Renato mentions meeting Peter at a basketball court and expresses admiration for his athletic skills.
• Peter Ahn thanks Renato and expresses his honor to be on the podcast, appreciating the community work Renato is doing.

Peter Ahn's Background and Early Life

• Peter Ahn shares his background, starting from his birth in Korea and moving to Rochester, New York, where his father was getting his PhD at the University of Rochester.
• Peter describes moving multiple times before settling in Palo Alto, California, and grappling with his identity as a Korean American in predominantly white areas.
• He attended Stanford University after moving to Palo Alto and worked at Google, Dropbox, and Slack, finding a passion for coaching early-stage startup founders on sales.
• Peter discusses his current role at Tiger Beetle, a company that powers real-time financial transactions, and his excitement about growing the company and brand.

Choosing Stanford and Early Career Challenges

• Peter explains his decision to attend Stanford, influenced by its proximity and the high pressure and competition in Palo Alto.
• He describes the challenges of adjusting to Stanford, including the high-pressure environment and the competitive nature of getting into prestigious schools.
• Peter shares his experience of being rejected from consulting and investment banking jobs after graduating from Stanford and how he almost didn't get into Google due to a technical error.
• He credits his best friend, who was an intern at Google, for helping him get an interview and eventually land his first job at Google.

Sports and Extracurricular Activities

• Peter talks about his involvement in sports, including playing tennis in high school and basketball in college.
• He shares his experience of coaching the JV girls tennis team and his initial interest in rowing crew at Stanford.
• Peter recounts how he ended up joining the cheerleading team at Stanford, initially as a challenge and later as a passion, traveling with various sports teams and enjoying the experience.
• He reflects on the importance of sports and extracurricular activities in his life and how they shaped his identity and interests.

Transition to Sales and Authentic Sales

• Peter discusses his transition from Google to a career in sales, initially handling chat and phone support for advertisers.
• He explains his love for pivoting conversations based on the needs and emotions of different people and how this led him to explore enterprise sales.
• Peter shares a story about creating a television commercial for a client, which helped him understand the creative aspects of sales and the importance of expanding customers' mindsets.
• He emphasizes the concept of authentic sales, which involves building human connections and understanding the motivations and backgrounds of clients.

Impact of AI on Sales and Trust Building

• Peter expresses concerns about the impact of AI on sales, noting that AI tools often focus on automation and scale rather than building trust and genuine connections.
• He believes that AI can be beneficial for automating mundane tasks but argues that the human element is crucial for long-term trust and success in sales.
• Peter shares his approach at Tiger Beetle, which emphasizes intentionality and avoiding excessive automation to maintain human interaction.
• He discusses the importance of thinking long-term and building relationships rather than focusing solely on short-term transactions.

Personal and Professional Failures

• Peter reflects on his personal and professional failures, including leaving Slack after nine months due to dissatisfaction with the leadership and company culture.
• He shares the decision to prioritize his happiness and mental health over financial success, even if it meant missing out on potential financial gains.
• Peter discusses other instances where he chose to leave companies for similar reasons, emphasizing the importance of values and long-term satisfaction over short-term gains.
• He believes that these experiences have shaped his career and helped him understand what truly matters in life and work.

Advice for Young People and Final Thoughts

• Peter advises young people to embrace obstacles and hard times, as they can become their superpowers in the future.
• He emphasizes the importance of hard work and being obsessed with what you do, even if it doesn't always feel easy.
• Peter shares his belief that the details and hard work put into every aspect of life can define one's journey and success.
• He concludes by encouraging young people to find their own voice and identity in their careers, building genuine connections and maintaining integrity in their work.

About Access Youth Academy

Access Granted is the official podcast of Access Youth Academy, a social impact organization whose mission is to transform the lives of underserved youth through academic enrichment, health and wellness, social responsibility and leadership using sports as a catalyst.  We believe every child should have equal access to achieve their full potential.  To Learn more about Access Youth Academy and explore how you can become a game changer, please visit our website.  

https://accessyouthacademy.org/

About Cloudcast Media

As the national leader in local podcasting, Cloudcast Media proudly produces "Access Granted" through its CauseCast platform to help amplify, augment, and accelerate the mission and reach of community social impact organizations.  For more information on Cloudcast Media, please visit their website at CloudCast Media.  

This episode was produced by high school student Associate Producers Natalie Beltran and Naol Hailemeskel. The episode was engineered / mixed / mastered by Christelle Auzas.

Welcome to ACCESS GRANTED

In this latest episode of Access Granted, Renato Paiva, the CEO of Access Youth Academy interviews Hugh Davies who shared his journey from South Africa to the U.S., highlighting his family's move due from apartheid and his education at Princeton and Groton. He discussed his career in art, including his dissertation on Francis Bacon and his 33-year tenure at the La Jolla Museum of Contemporary Art. Davies emphasized the importance of perseverance and family, recounting how he balanced work with personal life. He also discussed his involvement with Access Youth Academy, where he supports young people through education and sports. Davies' story underscores the power of sports and education in fostering resilience and community impact.

Achievements

• Hugh Davies worked as the director of the La Jolla Museum of Contemporary Art (now Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego) for 33 years.
• Davies has been involved with Access Youth Academy for about 10 years.
• Renato Paiva has been working with Access Youth Academy for 19 years.

Introduction to the Access Granted Podcast

• Renato introduces the Access Granted podcast, emphasizing its focus on stories of hope, perseverance, inspiration, and impact.
• The podcast aims to explore the lives of guests, their pivotal moments, and how they became difference makers in their communities.
• Renato highlights Mandela's words on the power of sports as a catalyst for social change and a universal language.
• The podcast promises to feature guests from various walks of life, sharing their unique stories of opportunity, resilience, and impact.

Hugh Davies' Early Life and Family Background

• Renato welcomes Hugh Davies to the podcast and asks him to share his life story, starting from his childhood.
• Hugh Davies was born in South Africa in a town named Grant's Town, which later changed its name to Maconda.
• His father, a British soldier, moved to Rhodes University to start a department of divinity and theology, but had to leave due to the introduction of apartheid in South Africa.
• The family moved to Oxford, England, where Hugh's father taught at Mansfield College, and later to Princeton, New Jersey, where Hugh attended school and experienced a significant cultural shift.

Hugh's Education and Early Sports Involvement

• Hugh attended Groton Prep School in New England on a scholarship, where he played various sports like cricket, rugby, and field hockey.
• He later moved to Princeton University, where he played squash and was part of the undefeated freshman squash team.
• Hugh's father had a sabbatical in Cambridge, England, where Hugh attended an English school and enjoyed playing sports, which he couldn't do in the fully integrated school in the US.
• Hugh's experience at Groton and Princeton shaped his love for sports and his academic journey.

Hugh's Academic and Professional Journey

• Hugh graduated from Princeton in 1970 and decided to pursue graduate studies to avoid being drafted during the Vietnam War.
• He spent a year in London researching British painter Francis Bacon, securing first-person interviews with the artist.
• Hugh returned to the US, completed his dissertation, and started working at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst as the founding director of the University Museum of Contemporary Art.
• He later taught modern and contemporary art at Amherst College and co-taught a course with his first wife.

Transition to California and Career at the La Jolla Museum of Contemporary Art

• Hugh took a sabbatical and traveled to Rwanda and Israel before receiving a fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts to study museums and galleries in Southern California.
• He visited the La Jolla Museum of Contemporary Art and was impressed by its exhibitions, which inspired him to apply for a director position.
• Hugh was hired as the director of the La Jolla Museum of Contemporary Art in 1983 and worked there for 33 years until 2018.
• He played a significant role in the museum's growth and development, making it a well-known institution in San Diego.

Hugh's Involvement with Access Youth Academy

• Hugh became involved with Access Youth Academy after attending one of their fundraisers and being impressed by the students' social awareness and engagement.
• He and his wife started supporting Access Youth Academy and later joined the board, despite a potential conflict of interest due to his other nonprofit work.
• Hugh's retirement has allowed him to focus more on volunteering with Access Youth Academy and other organizations.
• He values the time he spends with his grandchildren and emphasizes the importance of family and friends in his life.

Lessons and Advice for the Youth at Access Youth Academy

• Hugh emphasizes the importance of perseverance and sticking with challenges, even when things are tough.
• He shares a personal story about his son, who felt neglected due to his father's busy schedule, and how he made a conscious effort to be more present at home.
• Hugh advises the youth at Access Youth Academy to stay committed to their goals and not give up easily.
• He highlights the value of family and friends in achieving a balanced and fulfilling life.

About Access Youth Academy

Access Granted is the official podcast of Access Youth Academy, a social impact organization whose mission is to transform the lives of underserved youth through academic enrichment, health and wellness, social responsibility and leadership using sports as a catalyst.  We believe every child should have equal access to achieve their full potential.  To Learn more about Access Youth Academy and explore how you can become a game changer, please visit our website.  

https://accessyouthacademy.org/

About Cloudcast Media

As the national leader in local podcasting, Cloudcast Media proudly produces "Access Granted" through its CauseCast platform to help amplify, augment, and accelerate the mission and reach of community social impact organizations.  For more information on Cloudcast Media, please visit their website at CloudCast Media.  

This episode was produced by high school student Associate Producers Natalie Beltran and Naol Hailemeskel. The episode was engineered / mixed / mastered by Christelle Auzas. 

Welcome to ACCESS GRANTED

In this latest episode of Access Granted, Renato Paiva, the CEO of Access Youth Academy interviews Walter Green who shares his life journey on the Access Granted podcast, highlighting his 29-year segments: a struggling childhood, a business career, and a phase of service. He discusses his father's impact, his own career in the hospitality industry, and his transition to philanthropy. Green emphasizes the importance of expressing gratitude while people are alive, leading to the creation of the Say It Now movement, which has inspired over 10 million expressions of appreciation globally. He also praises Access Youth Academy for its mission, leadership, and success in helping underserved kids achieve higher education.

Walter Green's Early Life and Career Journey

• Reanto welcomes Walter Green to the Axis Youth Academy and expresses excitement about discussing his life story.
• Walter Green reflects on his life, describing his early years as a struggle marked by frequent moves due to his father's business ventures and health issues.
• He recounts his father's dream of owning a dude ranch in the Adirondacks, which led to financial difficulties and frequent relocations.
• Walter shares the impact of his father's heart attack and subsequent death, which influenced his early adulthood and career choices.

Career Transitions and Business Success

• Walter discusses his various jobs in his 20s, including working in the CPA field, food service, and hotel business.
• He describes his transition to a startup company in the executive conference center field, which became a successful business.
• Walter explains his decision to sell the company at 59 and move to the West Coast to focus on serving others through nonprofit work.
• He highlights his involvement in projects like the Institute of Science and his work in Kenya, emphasizing his commitment to serving others.

The Concept of Serving Others

• Reanto inquires about Walter's motivation for serving others, particularly in his later years.
• Walter explains that his entire life has been about serving in different forms, whether in business or nonprofit work.
• He emphasizes the importance of working with people he loves and the evolution of his service work to have no commercial application.
• Walter shares his belief that everyone has been given something by someone, and it's important to acknowledge and express gratitude.

The Say It Now Movement

• Reanto introduces Walter's Say It Now movement, which encourages people to express gratitude to those who have made a significant impact on their lives.
• Walter explains the inspiration behind the movement, which stemmed from his own experience of publicly acknowledging his friends' impact on his life.
• He describes the process of visiting 44 people to tell them how they had influenced him, leading to the creation of his book.
• Walter highlights the impact of the movement, which has inspired millions of expressions of gratitude globally.

Impact of the Say It Now Movement

• Walter shares the success of the Say It Now movement, including its reach in 83 countries and over 80,000 schools.
• He explains the importance of expressing gratitude while the person is alive, as it provides a meaningful experience for both the giver and receiver.
• Walter discusses the role of technology, such as Zoom, in facilitating the movement during the pandemic.
• He emphasizes the power of the movement to change lives and the positive feedback he has received from people who have participated.

Walter's Personal Reflections and Future Plans

• Walter reflects on his personal journey and the importance of having a supportive partner, like his wife Lola, throughout his life.
• He shares the challenges of balancing work and personal life, particularly in his early career, and how his wife's support has been crucial.
• Walter discusses his upcoming projects, including a new book and a documentary about the Say It Now movement.
• He expresses his commitment to continuing his work and making a difference in the lives of others, despite his age.

Advice for Youth and Final Thoughts

• Walter offers advice to the youth, emphasizing the importance of cherishing their community and expressing gratitude to those who have made a difference in their lives.
• He highlights the significance of acknowledging the impact of others and how it can inspire them to do more.
• Reanto shares his own experience of implementing the Say It Now concept and the positive impact it has had on his life.
• The conversation concludes with mutual appreciation and admiration for each other's work and commitment to making a difference.

About Access Youth Academy

Access Granted is the official podcast of Access Youth Academy, a social impact organization whose mission is to transform the lives of underserved youth through academic enrichment, health and wellness, social responsibility and leadership using sports as a catalyst.  We believe every child should have equal access to achieve their full potential.  To Learn more about Access Youth Academy and explore how you can become a game changer, please visit our website.  

https://accessyouthacademy.org/

About Cloudcast Media

As the national leader in local podcasting, Cloudcast Media proudly produces "Access Granted" throught its CauseCast platform to help amplify, augment, and accelerate the mission and reach of community social impact organizations.  For more information on Cloudcast Media, please visit their website at CloudCast Media.  

This episode was produced by high school student Associate Producers Natalie Beltran and Naol Hailemeskel. The episode was engineered / mixed / mastered by Christelle Auzas.  

Welcome to ACCESS GRANTED

In this latest episode of Access Granted, Renato Paiva, the CEO of Access Youth Academy interviews Susan Taylor who shared her journey from growing up in New England to becoming a TV news anchor, highlighting her experiences in Edmonton, Hartford, Dallas, and San Diego. She recounted a significant hostage crisis incident where she negotiated with a hostage taker for five hours. Taylor transitioned to Scripps Health, where she produces YouTube videos and interviews doctors. She emphasized the importance of compassion and credibility in journalism. Taylor also discussed her involvement with Access Youth Academy, which supports low-income students in San Diego, and her excitement for squash becoming an Olympic sport in 2028.



Susan's Career Journey

• Susan recounts her visit to her cousin, a producer for NBC in New York, which sparked her interest in TV news.
• She describes her transition from the University of Colorado to Boston University, where she pursued a degree in public communication.
• Susan details her internships at an ABC station in Boston, which solidified her career path in TV news.
• She shares her first job in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, where she co-produced the opening and closing ceremonies of the Commonwealth Games.

Susan's Experience in TV News

• Susan discusses her early career in Hartford and Dallas, and her move to San Diego, where she worked as a reporter and anchor.
• She highlights her experiences in Miami and Los Angeles before returning to San Diego.
• Susan emphasizes the importance of being a reporter and producer before becoming an anchor, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the news process.
• She shares her experiences of being in dangerous situations, such as being shot at and driving through wildfires, and how these experiences shaped her career.

The Hostage Crisis Incident

• Susan recounts a significant incident where she was involved in a five-hour negotiation with a hostage taker.
• She describes how the hostage taker called the newsroom, and she was tasked with negotiating with him.
• Susan shares how the hostage escaped through a second-story window, and the hostage taker later took his own life.
• She reflects on the experience, noting how it changed her perspective on interviewing and the importance of compassion in journalism.

Susan's Transition to Scripps Health

• Susan explains her transition from TV news to Scripps Health, driven by her desire to spend more time with her family.
• She shares her father's complicated heart surgery and the exceptional care he received at Scripps.
• Susan praises the culture of Scripps, describing it as a giving culture focused on patient care.
• She discusses her current role at Scripps, where she produces YouTube videos and interviews doctors, highlighting advancements in healthcare.

Susan's Involvement with Access Youth Academy

• Susan talks about her involvement with Access Youth Academy, an organization that provides academic and athletic opportunities to low-income students in San Diego.
• She emphasizes the organization's commitment to supporting students through college and into the workforce.
• Susan shares her excitement about the inclusion of squash in the 2028 Olympics and the potential for Access Youth Academy students to participate.
• She reflects on the impact of Access Youth Academy on its students, noting their academic and athletic achievements.

Susan's Message to Young People

• Susan encourages young people to go for their dreams, despite the obstacles they may face.
• She advises using setbacks as educational moments and not letting them paralyze them.
• Susan emphasizes the importance of keeping a vision for the future and not letting small setbacks derail their goals.
• She concludes by expressing her gratitude for being part of Access Youth Academy and Scripps Health, and the positive impact both organizations have on their communities

About Access Youth Academy

Access Granted is the official podcast of Access Youth Academy, a social impact organization whose mission is to transform the lives of underserved youth through academic enrichment, health and wellness, social responsibility and leadership using sports as a catalyst.  We believe every child should have equal access to achieve their full potential.  To Learn more about Access Youth Academy and explore how you can become a game changer, please visit our website.  

https://accessyouthacademy.org/

About Cloudcast Media

As the national leader in local podcasting, Cloudcast Media proudly produces "Access Granted" throught its CauseCast platform to help amplify, augment, and accelerate the mission and reach of community social impact organizations.  For more information on Cloudcast Media, please visit their website at CloudCast Media.  

This episode was produced by high school student Associate Producers Natalie Beltran and Naol Hailemeskel. The episode was engineered / mixed / mastered by Christelle Auzas.

Welcome to ACCESS GRANTED

In this latest episode of Access Granted, Renato Paiva, the CEO of Access Youth Academy, and his co-host Michael Castro interview Robin Toft, who shares her journey from Detroit to becoming a successful executive in the biotech industry. She emphasizes the importance of following one's intuition and building a strong personal brand. Robin discusses her career transitions, from medical technology to sales, and her pivotal moment when she was diagnosed with cancer at 45, leading her to focus on diversity in cancer care. She highlights the significance of AI in drug discovery and diagnostics. Robin also advocates for impact investing in female-led companies and supports cancer research through organizations like CureBound. She advises young people to foster connections and find their purpose.


Introduction of Robin Toft

• Renato Paiva introduces Robin Toft, a long-time friend and co-host of the podcast, and invites her to share her story.
• Robin Toft begins by recounting her early life in Detroit, Michigan, describing her working-class upbringing and the influence of her parents.
• Robin shares her early realization that she did not want to follow the traditional path of marriage and children, opting instead for a big life and career.
• She discusses the role models in her life, including her uncle who became a CEO and her aunt who encouraged her to pursue education and a career.

Robin's Early Career and Education

• Robin describes her early interest in sports, particularly water skiing, and how it built her confidence.
• She recounts her high school experience, including her decision to become a cheerleader and captain of the team, despite having no prior experience in gymnastics.
• Robin shares her academic journey, including her decision to attend the University of Michigan despite her father's belief that girls did not need to go to college.
• She discusses the challenges and rewards of transferring from the University of Michigan to Michigan State University, where she found a better fit and earned a credential in medical technology.

Robin's Career Transition and Personal Growth

• Robin reflects on her early career in sales, driven by her love for talking about science and her desire to make more money.
• She shares her experience of being mentored by a sales head who taught her the three reasons rule for solution-based selling, which led to her success in sales.
• Robin discusses her realization that her career had been largely self-centered and her decision to focus on making a difference in the world.
• She recounts her battle with cancer at the age of 45, which led her to change her life's direction and focus on elevating diversity in the life science workforce.

Robin's Impact on Diversity and Cancer Care

• Robin explains her decision to build an executive search firm focused on cancer and diversity, and how it grew rapidly.
• She discusses the importance of diversity in enhancing business performance and the impact of her work on cancer care and precision medicine.
• Robin shares her involvement in various nonprofit boards and her commitment to impact investing in female-led companies and cancer research.
• She emphasizes the importance of following one's passion and purpose in life, and how her work has been fulfilling and meaningful.

Robin's Philosophy on Life and Work

• Robin reflects on the importance of intuition and following one's inner voice in making life decisions.
• She discusses the role of meditation and mindfulness in quieting the mind and achieving a sense of peace.
• Robin shares her daily routine, including early morning walks, yoga, and meditation, which help her maintain energy and focus.
• She emphasizes the importance of relationships, exercise, and putting the phone away to live a long and healthy life.

Robin's Advice for Young People

• Robin advises young people to focus on building their personal brand and fostering connections through LinkedIn and other networks.
• She emphasizes the importance of finding one's purpose and standing for something meaningful in life.
• Robin shares her experience of overcoming challenges, including cancer and a fire, and how these experiences have shaped her perspective on life.
• She encourages young people to be open to learning and growing from difficult experiences and to focus on making a positive impact in the world.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

• Renato thanks Robin for sharing her story and for her contributions to the Access Youth Academy and the community.
• Robin expresses her gratitude for the opportunity to share her experiences and insights.
• The podcast concludes with a reminder to listeners to check out the Access Youth Academy and the Access Granted podcast for more inspiring stories.
• The episode ends with a message of hope and encouragement for young people to pursue their dreams and make a positive difference in the world.

About Access Youth Academy

Access Granted is the official podcast of Access Youth Academy, a social impact organization whose mission is to transform the lives of underserved youth through academic enrichment, health and wellness, social responsibility and leadership using sports as a catalyst.  We believe every child should have equal access to achieve their full potential.  To Learn more about Access Youth Academy and explore how you can become a game changer, please visit our website.  

https://accessyouthacademy.org/

About Cloudcast Media

As the national leader in local podcasting, Cloudcast Media proudly produces "Access Granted" throught its CauseCast platform to help amplify, augment, and accelerate the mission and reach of community social impact organizations.  For more information on Cloudcast Media, please visit their website at CloudCast Media.  

This episode was produced by high school student Associate Producers Natalie Beltran and Naol Hailemeskel. The episode was engineered / mixed / mastered by Christelle Auzas.

Welcome to ACCESS GRANTED

In this latest episode of Access Granted, Renato Paiva, the CEO of Access Youth Academy and his co-host Michael Castro interview Blair Sadler, very beloved in our Access family, sharing his journey from New York City to becoming a leader in healthcare and education. He discussed his early life, education at Amherst College, and his transition to law and medicine. Blair highlighted his collaboration with his brother, Fred, on legal and ethical issues in medicine. He detailed the founding of Access Youth Academy, an urban squash program in San Diego, and its challenges, including securing funding and facilities. Sadler emphasized the importance of resilience, mentorship, and impacting lives through education and sports. He also promoted his book, "(P)LUCK," co-authored with his brother.

Blair Sadler's Early Life and Education

• Blair Sadler shares his birth in 1941 in New York City and his upbringing in Allentown, Pennsylvania, highlighting his parents' influence on intellectual curiosity and learning.
• Blair recounts his early exposure to music, nature, and sports, including his mother's involvement in music and his father's interest in science and nature.
• He describes his academic journey, starting from public schools, attending Amherst College, and his involvement in squash, emphasizing the importance of collaboration over competition.
• Blair's experience at Amherst, including his transition from tennis to squash and his rise to the varsity team, is detailed, showcasing his passion for the sport.

Transition to Law School and Early Career

• Blair discusses his decision to attend the University of Pennsylvania Law School and his continued involvement in squash, highlighting the transition from hardball to softball squash.
• He shares his experience teaching tennis in summer programs, emphasizing the importance of communication and dealing with challenging students.
• Blair recounts a memorable teaching experience at Stanton Junior High School in Wilmington, Delaware, where he had to clean a broken glass-covered court and teach basic tennis skills to diverse students.
• The emotional impact of his teaching experience and his love for working with kids are highlighted, setting the stage for his future in education and mentorship.

Collaboration with His Brother and Early Professional Success

• Blair and his brother Fred collaborate on a legal and ethical study of the Good Samaritan problem, presenting their findings at Mass General Hospital.
• They receive mentorship and encouragement from Anthony Amsterdam at Penn Law School, leading to their pursuit of their idea despite their lack of experience.
• Blair and Fred secure a position with the US Public Health Service, working on organ donation and transplantation laws, which are widely adopted by states.
• Their work at Yale and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation is highlighted, showcasing their ability to create and implement significant health care programs.

Transition to Scripps Clinic and Children's Hospital

• Blair joins Scripps Clinic in La Jolla, California, as Vice President, Director of Hospital, and later becomes President and CEO of Children's Hospital.
• He emphasizes the importance of providing healthcare to all children, regardless of their ability to pay, and his role in expanding the hospital's services.
• Blair's involvement in the renaming of Children's Hospital to Rady Children's Hospital is discussed, highlighting the impact of a major donor, Ernest Rady.
• His transition from hospital management to healthcare leadership is framed as a natural progression of his commitment to helping children and improving healthcare systems.

Founding of Access Youth Academy

• Blair and Greg Zaff explore the idea of starting an urban squash program in San Diego, facing initial skepticism due to the lack of a squash base in the city.
• They secure a partnership with the UCSD Price School and find a leader in Renato Paiva, who helps start the program with limited resources.
• The initial challenges of finding a suitable location and building support for the program are detailed, including close calls with potential partners like Hoover High School.
• The eventual success of securing a location at the Jacobs Center for Community Innovation and the construction of a new facility are celebrated, marking a significant milestone for Access Youth Academy.

Building and Growing Access Youth Academy

• The journey from securing the land at the Jacobs Center to raising funds and building the new facility is recounted, highlighting the resilience and determination required.
• Blair and Renato discuss the importance of having a supportive community, including Board members and donors, in overcoming obstacles and achieving success.
• The new facility, featuring eight squash courts, classrooms, and community space, is described as a significant achievement for the program.
• The impact of the new facility on the program's growth and the ability to serve more students from diverse backgrounds is emphasized, showcasing the long-term vision and commitment to the program's success.

Reflections on Impact and Legacy

• Blair reflects on the impact of his work at Access Youth Academy, comparing it to his previous roles at Children's Hospital and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
• He emphasizes the importance of impacting lives and creating opportunities for young people, highlighting the program's success in helping students gain access to higher education and successful careers.
• Blair shares his personal satisfaction in seeing the program's graduates thrive and contribute to their communities, reinforcing the program's mission and purpose.
• The conversation concludes with Blair offering advice to the students at Access Youth Academy, encouraging them to adopt a possibility mindset, take roads less traveled, and develop their voice in speaking and writing.

About Access Youth Academy

Access Granted is the official podcast of Access Youth Academy, a social impact organization whose mission is to transform the lives of underserved youth through academic enrichment, health and wellness, social responsibility and leadership using sports as a catalyst.  We believe every child should have equal access to achieve their full potential.  To Learn more about Access Youth Academy and explore how you can become a game changer, please visit our website.  

https://accessyouthacademy.org/

About Cloudcast Media

As the national leader in local podcasting, Cloudcast Media proudly produces "Access Granted" throught its CauseCast platform to help amplify, augment, and accelerate the mission and reach of community social impact organizations.  For more information on Cloudcast Media, please visit their website at CloudCast Media.  

This episode was produced by high school student Associate Producers Natalie Beltran and Naol Hailemeskel. The episode was engineered / mixed / mastered by Christelle Auzas.

Welcome to ACCESS GRANTED


In this lastest episode of Access Granted, Renato Paiva, the CEO of Access Youth Academy introduces Michael Castro as a new co-host and guest Lynelle Boamah, a transitioning military physician with 30 years of service. Lynelle shares her challenging upbringing in Baltimore, her early interest in medicine, and her journey through medical school and the Navy. She highlights her resilience, mentorship, and leadership roles, including directing a pediatric residency program and serving as Chief Medical Officer for the Navy's Third Fleet. Lynelle emphasizes the importance of pursuing dreams, hard work, and the support of mentors and family.

• Renato Paiva introduces the Access Granted podcast, emphasizing its focus on stories of hope, perseverance, inspiration, and impact.
• The podcast aims to explore the lives of guests, their opportunities, pivotal moments, and their journey to becoming difference makers.
• Renato Paiva highlights the connection between sports and social change, quoting Mandela on the power of sports to unite people.
• The podcast aims to go beyond sports, discussing the doors that open in life, the moments that shape journeys, and the people who help others step through to the next level.

Introduction of Lynelle Boamah

• Lynelle Boamah, a board member of Access Youth Academy, is introduced as the special guest.
• Lynelle is invited to share her story, starting with what she currently does.
• Lynelle describes her role as a transitioning military physician, having served in the Navy for nearly 30 years.

Lynelle's Early Life and Education

• Lynelle shares her childhood experiences growing up in a dangerous part of Baltimore in the 1970s and 1980s.
• She describes her mother as a single parent who did her best to provide for the family despite their poverty.
• Lynelle recounts her early interest in medicine, inspired by her experiences with doctors and her desire to help others.
• She mentions the support she received from teachers like Beverly Boston and Joe Thomas, who helped her navigate her educational journey.

Transition to Medical School and Navy Career

• Lynelle discusses her journey to medical school at the University of Maryland, driven by her passion for medicine.
• She explains how her sister's advice led her to join the Navy as a doctor, securing a health profession scholarship.
• Lynelle describes her initial struggles as an intern in the Navy, feeling out of place and lacking confidence.
• She credits a mentor, Al Twyman, for helping her regain her confidence and excel in her role.

Career Highlights and Achievements

• Lynelle shares her career highlights, including her role as a training program director and residency program director.
• She describes her experiences leading a hospital ship and a large Marine Corps base, highlighting her leadership and impact.
• Lynelle reflects on her journey from struggling intern to leading significant medical programs and roles.
• She emphasizes the importance of hard work, resilience, and continuous growth in her career.

Impact of Sports on Family and Personal Development

• Lynelle discusses the role of sports in her family, particularly in teaching responsibility, timeliness, and sportsmanship.
• She shares her children's achievements in various sports, including soccer, track and field, and volleyball.
• Lynelle highlights the importance of sports in developing well-rounded individuals who are both academically and athletically accomplished.
• She reflects on how sports have helped her children understand the value of hard work and sacrifice.

Advice for Young People and Final Thoughts

• Lynelle offers advice to young people, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and not give up on their goals.
• She emphasizes the importance of finding mentors and support systems to help them achieve their potential.
• Lynelle shares her belief in the power of hard work and resilience, urging young people to push through challenges and seize opportunities.
• The podcast concludes with Renato Paiva expressing gratitude to Lynelle for sharing her story and inspiring the audience.

About Access Youth Academy

Access Granted is the official podcast of Access Youth Academy, a social impact organization whose mission is to transform the lives of underserved youth through academic enrichment, health and wellness, social responsibility and leadership using sports as a catalyst.  We believe every child should have equal access to achieve their full potential.  To Learn more about Access Youth Academy and explore how you can become a game changer, please visit our website.  

https://accessyouthacademy.org/

About Cloudcast Media

As the national leader in local podcasting, Cloudcast Media proudly produces "Access Granted" throught its CauseCast platform to help amplify, augment, and accelerate the mission and reach of community social impact organizations.  For more information on Cloudcast Media, please visit their website at CloudCast Media.  

This episode was produced by high school student Associate Producer Natalie Beltran and Naol Hailemeskel.  The recording engineer was Alfredo Melita and the episode was engineered / mixed / mastered by Christelle Auzas.  

Welcome to ACCESS GRANTED

In this latest episode of Access Granted, Renato Paiva, the CEO of Access Youth Academy interviews Greg Lucier, an Executive Chairman at Corza Health, about his journey from a blue-collar town in Pennsylvania to a successful career in healthcare and technology. Lucier discusses his early years, including his wrestling career and decision to pursue engineering, influenced by his father. He highlights key moments in his career, such as his time at GE and his role in turning around NuVasive. Lucier emphasizes the importance of humility, dedication, and continuous learning, and shares insights on the value of sports and reading in personal development.

• Renato Paiva introduces the Access Granted podcast, emphasizing its focus on stories of hope, perseverance, inspiration, and impact.
• The podcast aims to explore the who, what, when, and why of guests' lives, highlighting pivotal moments and opportunities that shaped their paths.
• Mandela's words on the power of sports as a catalyst for social change are featured, aligning with the mission of Access Youth Academy.
• Renato Paiva outlines the podcast's goal to discuss the doors that open in life, the moments that shape journeys, and the people who help others step through to the next level.

Introduction of Greg Lucier

• Renato Paiva welcomes Greg Lucier, highlighting his impressive career in healthcare and technology, including his role as Executive Chairman of Corza Health.
• Greg expresses his excitement about being on the podcast and mentions his background in healthcare and technology.
• Renato Paiva asks Greg to share his early years, focusing on his high school experiences and involvement in sports.

Greg Lucier's Early Life and Sports Background

• Greg describes growing up in Norristown, Pennsylvania, a blue-collar town, and attending a Catholic school.
• He shares his involvement in wrestling, becoming the Captain of the wrestling team and a Pennsylvania state champ wrestler in his senior year.
• Greg explains how his father influenced his decision to pursue wrestling instead of football due to his older brother's injuries.
• He discusses the competitive nature of wrestling in Pennsylvania and his eventual choice to attend Penn State University.

Decision to Pursue Engineering and Early Career

• Greg reveals his initial desire to be an engineer, influenced by his father's advice on his technical and people skills.
• He shares his high school experience, graduating from a large school with a small percentage attending college, and the impact of his father's guidance.
• Greg talks about his decision to pursue engineering at Penn State and later attending Harvard Business School for an MBA.
• He describes his early career at International Paper Company and his transition to General Electric (GE), where he learned valuable general management skills.

Transition to Healthcare and Leadership Lessons

• Greg recounts how Jack Welch at GE encouraged him to move to Milwaukee to work in the medical business, despite his lack of experience in healthcare.
• He shares the challenges and successes of building the medical business within GE, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and guidance.
• Greg highlights the role of his father as a mentor and the impact of his wife's support in his career.
• He discusses the importance of humility and the ability to reflect upon and learn from mistakes, using his experience at NuVasive as an example.

Sports and Personal Development

• Greg talks about his involvement in extreme sports like helicopter skiing and racing motorcycles, which he finds thrilling and challenging.
• He also mentions his interest in precision sports like golf and pickleball, which require technical skill and dedication.
• Renato and Greg discuss the importance of purposeful sports participation and the transferable skills gained from sports to other areas of life.
• Greg shares his admiration for the dedication and excellence of the students at Access Youth Academy and the impact of their mentorship.

Commitment and Resilience in Career and Sports

• Greg emphasizes the importance of commitment and the ability to bounce back from setbacks, using his experience at GE and NuVasive as examples.
• He discusses the value of staying committed to long-term goals and the importance of perseverance in achieving success.
• Renato shares his experiences with students at Access Youth Academy, highlighting the importance of grit, kindness, and hunger in life.
• They discuss the challenges of balancing sports and academic commitments and the importance of staying focused and dedicated.

Advice for Young People and Final Thoughts

• Greg advises young people to read serious newspapers daily to stay informed and engaged with the world.
• He emphasizes the importance of having a point of view and being able to contribute to meaningful conversations.
• Renato shares a personal story about the impact of reading and engaging with knowledgeable individuals, reinforcing the importance of continuous learning.
• Greg expresses his admiration for the work of Access Youth Academy and the positive impact it has on young people's lives.

About Access Youth Academy

Access Granted is the official podcast of Access Youth Academy, a social impact organization whose mission is to transform the lives of underserved youth through academic enrichment, health and wellness, social responsibility and leadership using sports as a catalyst.  We believe every child should have equal access to achieve their full potential.  To Learn more about Access Youth Academy and explore how you can become a game changer, please visit our website.  

https://accessyouthacademy.org/

About Cloudcast Media

As the national leader in local podcasting, Cloudcast Media proudly produces "Access Granted" throught its CauseCast platform to help amplify, augment, and accelerate the mission and reach of community social impact organizations.  For more information on Cloudcast Media, please visit their website at CloudCast Media.  

This episode was produced by high school student Associate Producer Natalie Beltran and Naol Hailemeskel.  The recording engineer was Alfredo Melita and the episode was engineered / mixed / mastered by Christelle Auzas.

Welcome to ACCESS GRANTED.  

In this latest episode of Access Granted, Renato Paiva, the CEO of Access Youth Academy was joined in studio by a true legend of the San Diego educational, entrepreneurship, and innovation world, the one and only Dr. Mary Walshok.   Mary, a Swedish immigrant born in 1942, shared her journey on the "Access Granted" podcast. She discussed her upbringing, her passion for music, and her career at UCSD, where she helped establish the Connect program and UCTV. Mary emphasized the importance of social capital and regional collaboration in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. She highlighted her knighthood from Sweden for her contributions to innovation and entrepreneurship. Mary also stressed the significance of Access Youth Academy in building social capital through sports, competence, and confidence, encouraging young people to discover their strengths and opportunities.  Below you'll find a summary of the conversation between Renato and Mary.  

Introduction of Mary Walshok

• Mary shares her background, including her birth in 1942, her Swedish immigrant parents, and her upbringing in Palm Springs, California.
• Mary discusses her early experiences traveling in Europe, which shaped her worldview and cultural connections.
• She mentions her love for music, her initial aspiration to be an opera singer, and her eventual pivot to sociology and a PhD from UCSD.

Early Life and Influences

• Mary describes her upbringing in a binational family, speaking Swedish before English and singing before talking.
• She shares her experiences of traveling to Europe, witnessing the aftermath of World War II, and developing a unique perspective on the world.
• Mary talks about her parents' decision to move to California, where they lived in Palm Springs, exposing her to a glamorous and culturally diverse environment.
• She emphasizes the importance of her early musical training and her social scientist curiosity, which led her to pursue a PhD in sociology.

Career and Contributions

• Mary discusses her career at UCSD, her involvement in the development of San Diego's tech ecosystem, and her role in creating the Connect program.
• She highlights the importance of regional collaboration and the impact of her work on innovation and entrepreneurship.
• Mary shares her experiences with the Order of the Polar Star, a knighthood awarded by the King of Sweden, and her involvement with the Prince Daniel Foundation.
• She reflects on the significance of her contributions to building platforms and fostering regional development.

Passion for Sports and Arts

• Mary talks about her passion for tennis and racket sports, and how they have been a significant part of her life.
• She shares her experiences playing tennis with friends and the beauty of watching racket sports and track and field events.
• Mary discusses her involvement in supporting the arts in San Diego and the importance of living an artful life.
• She mentions her brother's work in the government of Brazil on cultural and music-related projects.

Involvement with Access Youth Academy

• Mary explains her connection with Access Youth Academy and her belief in the power of sports to create opportunities for young people.
• She emphasizes the importance of social capital and the role of mentors and sponsors in building opportunities for youth.
• Mary discusses the impact of Access Youth Academy on building competence, confidence, and connections in young athletes.
• She shares her experiences with the program and the importance of providing access to tutors, the right path, and ongoing support.

Advice for Young People

• Mary advises young people to resist the pressure to excel in a narrow definition of success and to be open to discovering their strengths and passions.
• She emphasizes the importance of finding the right school and environment that allows them to discover their life vocation.
• Mary shares her own experiences of being in the right place at the right time and the importance of seizing opportunities.
• She encourages young people to be open to different paths and to find where they can make a difference.

About Access Youth Academy

Access Granted is the official podcast of Access Youth Academy, a social impact organization whose mission is to transform the lives of underserved youth through academic enrichment, health and wellness, social responsibility and leadership using sports as a catalyst.  We believe every child should have equal access to achieve their full potential.  To Learn more about Access Youth Academy and explore how you can become a game changer, please visit our website.  

https://accessyouthacademy.org/

About Cloudcast Media

As the national leader in local podcasting, Cloudcast Media proudly produces "Access Granted" throught its CauseCast platform to help amplify, augment, and accelerate the mission and reach of community social impact organizations.  For more information on Cloudcast Media, please visit their website at CloudCast Media.  

This episode was produced by high school student Associate Producer Natalie Beltran.  The recording engineer was Alfredo Melita and the episode was engineered / mixed / mastered by Christelle Auzas.

Welcome to ACCESS GRANTED.  

In the very first episode of Access Granted, Renato Paiva, the CEO of Access Youth Academy was joined in studio by Bill Kellogg, a prominent figure in La Jolla's sports community.  Bill shared his journey from early tennis and soccer experiences to becoming a tennis coach and club manager. He highlighted his time at Dartmouth, where he captained both the tennis and soccer teams, and his pivotal role in organizing major tennis tournaments. Bill recounted his experience as a linesman at Wimbledon and his coaching philosophy, emphasizing the importance of fun and cross-training. He also discussed the growth of racket sports and the need for better public sports facilities. Bill's advice to youth: enjoy sports, avoid over-specialization, and maintain a balanced approach to athletic development.  Below you'll find a summary of the conversation between Renato and Bill.  


Bill Kellogg's Early Sports Experiences

• Bill shares his early exposure to sports, starting with his father taking him to tennis doubles games at a young age.
• He describes how he would hit against the garage door while his father played tennis with friends.
• Bill mentions his involvement in various sports, including little league baseball, soccer, lacrosse, and horseback riding.
• He recounts his experience as captain of the high school soccer team and the humorous incident of being removed from the basketball team for aiming at the wrong basket.

Bill's Tennis Journey and High School Competitions

• Bill talks about starting tennis at a very young age, with his father encouraging him to play in tournaments.
• He describes the competitive environment of high school tennis and the challenges of balancing school and sports.
• Bill shares his experience of playing in tournaments as a young child and the impact of high school requirements on his tournament participation.
• He reflects on the fun and challenges of playing tennis and other sports during his high school years.

College Tennis and Leadership at Dartmouth

• Bill discusses his decision to attend Dartmouth College and his experience playing tennis there.
• He describes the challenges of not being recruited by the varsity tennis team and having to play on the freshman team.
• Bill highlights his role as captain of the freshman team and his eventual transition to the varsity team.
• He reflects on the special experiences of traveling with the Dartmouth tennis team and the leadership skills developed through competitive sports.

Impact of Coaches and Early Career in Tennis

• Bill credits his father and Coach Dick Leach as significant influences in his tennis career.
• He shares his experience of working for Dick Leach as an assistant pro and learning various aspects of tennis club management.
• Bill describes the challenges and opportunities of managing a tennis club at a young age, including handling large clinics and managing finances.
• He reflects on the importance of having role models and mentors in his tennis journey.

Transition to La Jolla and Management of the La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club

• Bill talks about joining the family business at the La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club in 1979.
• He describes the responsibilities he took on, including computerizing payroll, managing accounts payable, and upgrading facilities.
• Bill shares his experience of working closely with his father and other mentors to modernize and improve the club.
• He reflects on the valuable lessons learned from managing the club and the importance of hard work and dedication.

Bill's Role in Major Tennis Tournaments

• Bill discusses his role as tournament director for major tennis events, including the National Men's and Women's 40 Hardcore Championship.
• He shares his experience of organizing and running these tournaments and the challenges involved.
• Bill reflects on the importance of learning from his mentors and the skills developed through managing these events.
• He highlights the significance of these experiences in his career and the impact on his ability to manage large-scale events.

Bill's Experience as a Linesman at Wimbledon

• Bill recounts his experience as a linesman at Wimbledon, including how he and his friend Kevin Clark got the opportunity.
• He describes the special moments of officiating matches and the impact of working closely with top tennis players.
• Bill shares anecdotes about memorable matches and players he encountered, including Pancho Gonzalez.
• He reflects on the unique experience of being a linesman at Wimbledon and the lessons learned from it.

Bill's Coaching Style and Philosophy

• Bill discusses his coaching style and the importance of making tennis fun and enjoyable for players.
• He emphasizes the value of learning from coaches like Dick Leach and the engineering approach to tennis.
• Bill reflects on the impact of his coaching on his own game and the importance of helping others improve their skills.
• He shares his philosophy of leading by example and the importance of developing leadership qualities through sports.

Bill's Thoughts on the Growth of Racket Sports

• Bill expresses enthusiasm for the growth of racket sports like pickleball and squash.
• He highlights the benefits of these sports for physical and mental health and the importance of public parks in promoting sports.
• Bill discusses the challenges of maintaining and improving public sports facilities and the need for better management and investment.
• He reflects on the importance of making sports accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of age or skill level.

Bill's Reflections on Failure and Success

• Bill shares a story of a failed tennis tournament he organized, highlighting the importance of careful planning and preparation.
• He reflects on the lessons learned from this experience and the importance of learning from failures.
• Bill discusses the challenges of organizing major events and the importance of having a solid financial plan.
• He shares his philosophy of taking a tougher approach to contracts and ensuring financial stability before committing to events.

Bill's Advice for Youth in Sports

• Bill emphasizes the importance of making sports fun and enjoyable for young athletes.
• He advises against specializing in one sport too early and encourages cross-training and generalization.
• Bill shares stories of talented players who faced injuries due to overtraining and the importance of balancing sports with other activities.
• He reflects on the value of having a passion for sports and the importance of finding enjoyment in the process.

About Access Youth Academy

"Access Granted" is the official podcast of Access Youth Academy, a social impact organization whose mission is to transform the lives of underserved youth through academic enrichment, health and wellness, social responsibility and leadership using sports as a catalyst.  We believe every child should have equal access to achieve their full potential.  To Learn more about Access Youth Academy and explore how you can become a game changer, please visit our website.  

https://accessyouthacademy.org/

About Cloudcast Media

As the national leader in local podcasting, Cloudcast Media proudly produces "Access Granted" throught its CauseCast platform to help amplify, augment, and accelerate the mission and reach of community social impact organizations.  For more information on Cloudcast Media, please visit their website at CloudCast Media.  

This episode was produced by two high school student Associate Producers, Natalie Beltran and Naol Hailemeskel. The recording engineer was Alfredo Melita and the episode was engineered / mixed / mastered by Christelle Auzas.